Classic Scottish Shortbread Squares
Indulge in the buttery goodness of Classic Scottish Shortbread Squares, a timeless treat perfect for any occasion. This traditional recipe yields a melt-in-your-mouth cookie with a delightful crumbly texture. Simple yet elegant, these shortbread squares are made with just three essential ingredients: flour, sugar, and cold butter. Ideal for sharing at gatherings, enjoying with a cup of tea, or offering as a sweet gift, this easy-to-follow recipe will have your friends and family asking for seconds.
48
Servings
75
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
flour
4 cups
sugar
1 cup
cold butter
1 lb (cut into small cubes)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour and sugar until well combined.
3
Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles a fine crumbly texture, ensuring that the butter is evenly distributed.
4
Once combined, knead the dough gently on a floured surface for about 7-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and cohesive.
5
Transfer the dough to an ungreased 15x10-inch baking pan, pressing it evenly into the bottom and smoothing the surface with your fingertips.
6
Using a fork, pierce the surface of the dough all over, which will help it bake evenly and prevent bubbling.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown.
8
Remove from the oven and let the shortbread cool slightly in the pan. While still warm, cut into squares using a sharp knife for clean edges.
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
7.5g
Carbs
0.83g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Classic Scottish Shortbread Squares?
They are a traditional Scottish treat known for their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and simple three-ingredient base.
What are the three essential ingredients needed?
The essential ingredients are flour, sugar, and cold butter.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields approximately 48 shortbread squares.
What temperature should the oven be preheated to?
The oven should be preheated to 325 degrees Fahrenheit or 160 degrees Celsius.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each shortbread square contains approximately 75 calories.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as a Bar Cookie.
How much flour is required for the recipe?
You will need 4 cups of flour.
What amount of sugar is used?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of sugar.
How much butter is used in the shortbread?
The recipe requires 1 pound of cold butter.
How should the butter be prepared before mixing?
The cold butter should be cut into small cubes.
Why is the flour and sugar sifted together?
Sifting ensures that the flour and sugar are well combined and free of lumps.
What tool can be used to cut in the butter?
You can use a pastry cutter or your hands to incorporate the butter.
What should the mixture look like after adding butter?
The mixture should resemble a fine crumbly texture.
How long should the dough be kneaded?
The dough should be kneaded for about 7 to 8 minutes until it is smooth and cohesive.
What size baking pan is needed?
A 15x10-inch baking pan is recommended.
Should the baking pan be greased?
No, the dough should be transferred to an ungreased baking pan.
Why do you pierce the surface of the dough with a fork?
Piercing the dough helps it bake evenly and prevents bubbling during the baking process.
How long does the shortbread take to bake?
It takes approximately 25 minutes to bake.
What is the visual indicator that the shortbread is done?
The edges should be light golden brown when finished.
When should you cut the shortbread into squares?
The shortbread should be cut while it is still warm to ensure clean edges.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 5 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in each square?
Each square contains 7.5 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in a serving of shortbread?
Each square contains 0.83 grams of protein.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is described as an easy-to-follow recipe with simple steps.
Can these cookies be served with tea?
Yes, they are ideal for enjoying with a cup of tea or at tea time.
What is the texture of the finished cookie?
The shortbread has a delightful crumbly and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Can these be given as gifts?
Absolutely, they are perfect for offering as a sweet homemade gift.
What are some tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include shortbread, cookie, dessert, baking, scottish, and buttery.
How do you smooth the dough in the pan?
You should press it evenly into the bottom and smooth the surface with your fingertips.
What kind of knife should be used for cutting?
A sharp knife should be used while the shortbread is warm to get clean edges.